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Circulating C3, C4, and C3 split products (C3c and C3d) during normal pregnancy
Summary
Pregnancy elevates complement component C3 and C3d levels, indicating increased C3 turnover rather than complement cascade activation. C4 levels remained unaffected, and C3c was undetectable.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- The complement system is crucial for innate immunity.
- Complement components C3 and C4 are key players in complement activation.
- Pregnancy involves complex immunological adaptations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in complement components C3, C4, and their split products during normal pregnancy.
- To determine if observed changes reflect complement cascade activation or increased C3 turnover.
Main Methods:
- Plasma concentrations of C3, C4, C3c, and C3d were measured.
- Measurements were taken before, during (second and third trimesters), and after pregnancy.
- Electroimmunoassays were used for detection.
Main Results:
- Significantly increased plasma levels of C3 and C3d were observed in the second and third trimesters.
- Plasma C4 levels were not significantly affected by pregnancy.
- C3c was not detectable using the employed electroimmunoassays.
Conclusions:
- Elevated C3 and C3d levels during pregnancy suggest increased turnover of native C3.
- The findings do not support significant activation of the complement cascade during normal pregnancy.
- Pregnancy-related immune modulation may involve altered C3 metabolism.